This blog post may contain references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers or partners. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products or services.
Many people use VPNs to improve their security while browsing the internet. This tool encrypts your online traffic, preventing your ISP, government, or hackers from accessing your private data. However, experienced users know that VPNs have many other benefits, including saving money. By changing your virtual location, you can access country-specific deals that can reduce the cost of flight tickets, subscriptions, and video games. Read on to discover how a VPN can help you save money.
How does a VPN work?
Before we share our money-saving tips, let us briefly explain how a VPN works. A VPN is a security tool that tunnels your connection through a secure remote server. This connection masks your IP address and replaces it with a new one instead. Since an IP is always tied to a specific location, a VPN will make it appear like you’re browsing the internet from a different country or city.
VPNs are very versatile. They come with different pricing and compatibility options. For instance, you can get a free Android VPN or use a premium version on your desktop device. Certain VPNs can also be set up on smart TVs and other devices, so it’s crucial to research the provider’s benefits before making a purchase.
How VPNs save money?
Utilizing a VPN can save you money by combatting price discrimination. This pricing strategy involves companies selling the same product at varying prices depending on the buyer’s background and location. With a VPN, you can access goods and services in countries with lower purchasing power, allowing you to buy items at lower prices.
Save money on video games
If you enjoy playing video games, you know how expensive they are, but a VPN can help you save money. Many game marketplaces also use price discrimination as their pricing strategy. An example of this is Steam, which offers varying pricing based on location. For instance, Cyberpunk 2077 costs $59.99 in the US, but if you switch your location to Argentina, the price drops to $22.29.
Our suggestion is to select the games you wish to purchase and verify their prices at your present location. After that, log out of the service, delete your cookies, and change your location with a VPN. Keep checking and comparing prices until you come across a discount!
Save money on subscriptions
Netflix and other streaming services try to prevent VPN usage for multiple reasons. One reason is to prevent users from bypassing content geo-restrictions. Another reason is to prevent users from finding better pricing. Services want to increase profitability and expand their user base by offering different pricing plans in certain countries.
A popular streaming service Netflix, which recently upped its prices, is much cheaper in countries like Turkey. You can get its Premium plan costing $19.99 in the US, for around $5, by changing your location to Turkey.
Another platform that offers cheaper subscriptions based on the county is YouTube Premium. The provider crates US citizens $11.99 per month. Meanwhile, residents in India pay as little as $1.88.
Save money while traveling
Saving money for your holidays is always a great idea! One way to do this is by using a VPN to search for cheaper plane tickets and hotels.
However, it can be difficult to find exactly what you’re looking for. Hotel prices vary based on the booking website, location, and time of booking. Therefore, it’s important to conduct thorough research to find the best price for your preferred accommodations.
Finding affordable plane tickets can be just as challenging as searching for a hotel that fits your budget. Ticket prices vary according to several factors, such as demand, location, and time. Additionally, some services may increase prices if they detect that you have previously searched for a particular route. To prevent this, consider using a VPN to avoid any pricing inflation.
Saving with personalized discounts
There are several platforms like Amazon that offer customized discounts and other retail benefits. However, these offers are usually limited to a single use. But what if you want to redeem the deal again? Websites can identify returning customers and restrict the use of the discount to a specific number of times. However, you can use a VPN to remain anonymous and switch identities as many times as you desire.
How to pick a VPN service?
With so many providers available, it can be difficult to find one that is both efficient and affordable. However, the first thing you should look at when selecting a provider is security features. A reputable provider should offer AES encryption, WireGuard tunneling protocol, and a kill switch. These features ensure that the VPN is fast, secure, and leak-proof.
Then look at the provider’s server fleet and location coverage. To find deals around the globe, you need a VPN with thousands of servers in as many locations as possible. Also, look at the additional features it offers. Tools such as ad blockers and tracker removal will help you stay clear from malicious and privacy-invading adware.
Conclusion
VPNs are tools designed to enhance online security and privacy. However, they can also be used to save money while shopping online. By changing your location, VPNs enable you to explore better deals on various services, including plane tickets, hotels, video games, and online subscriptions. Simply start searching for deals on your favorite services and enjoy the savings.
Become an Insider
Editorial Disclaimer: The editorial content on this page is not provided by any of the companies mentioned and has not been endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are author's alone
The content of this website is for informational purposes only and does not represent investment advice, or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security, investment, or product. Investors are encouraged to do their own due diligence, and, if necessary, consult professional advising before making any investment decisions. Investing involves a high degree of risk, and financial losses may occur.
